Elise Zaniker

Elise Zaniker is an Associate at ELPC. Elise graduated magna cum laude from Washington University School of Law and received her B.S. in Environmental and Ecological Engineering with highest honors from Purdue University. During Law School, Elise interned for a Federal District Court Judge in the Southern District of New York and with the Natural Resource Defense Council’s Chicago Office. Elise participated in Washington University’s Interdisciplinary Environmental Clinic and worked to address vacant housing in St. Louis. Elise also served as the Chief Articles Editor of Washington University Law Review.

WHAT’S A PLACE YOU LOVE IN THE MIDWEST?

My family spent a lot of time in Brown County, Indiana, when I was growing up. Seeing the leaves change colors in the fall and searching for geodes in the creeks inspired my love of nature and the outdoors, which never went away.

WHAT DRIVES YOU TO DO THIS WORK?

I wouldn’t have had the opportunities or success I have had if I didn’t have access to clean air, clean water, and green spaces growing up. I want to work to ensure that everyone has equal access to a clean and healthy environment.